Volkswagen Beetle 1100 Standard ‘Split Window’ (1951) – An Exceptional Piece of Volkswagen History

Some classic cars are beautifully restored. Others are exceptionally rare. But only occasionally do you come across a car where rarity, originality, craftsmanship and history come together in such an extraordinary way. This 1951 Volkswagen Split Window Beetle is a perfect example.

This is a particularly rare Volkswagen 1100 Standard, originally delivered new in Belgium in 1951 and finished in its original colour combination of Perlgrau (L21) with a Streifengrau interior. An early Beetle with the iconic split rear window, in a specification and condition that are almost impossible to find today.

What makes this particular car even more special is the story behind its restoration. The Beetle was completely restored in the 1980s by its third owner, a man who spent his entire professional career working as a mechanic for Volkswagen-Porsche. A true craftsman, with extensive technical knowledge and, above all, an enormous passion for his work. He is the very same gentleman who also restored our exceptional Porsche 356 B Cabriolet.

His knowledge and dedication are evident in every detail. The restoration was not simply intended to make the car look beautiful, but to return it as accurately as possible to its original 1951 factory specifications.

And the result is truly remarkable.

From the correct 16-inch wheels and original VW-Hella headlights to the fully functioning semaphore indicators, characteristic roller accelerator pedal, correct interior fabrics and even the smallest details, everything reflects the authenticity of an early Volkswagen.

Mechanically, the car has also remained faithful to its origins. At the rear, it still retains its original matching-numbers 1131 cc flat-four engine producing 25 hp, coupled to the correct four-speed gearbox. Even the original 6-volt electrical system has been preserved.

The condition of this Beetle is simply exceptional. Despite the restoration having been completed several decades ago, the car still presents today as though it had only just left the factory. The bodywork, interior, engine compartment and underside all demonstrate an exceptionally high standard of restoration and meticulous preservation.

Equally impressive is its history. This Split Window Beetle has had just three owners and still retains its original Belgian registration booklet. Even the purchase invoices from 1958 and 1970 have survived, together with other historical documents. A remarkably complete history file that brings the story of this car to life.

An independent specialist confirmed the exceptional quality, originality and rarity of this particular example in a detailed appraisal report in 2023.

An early Split Window Beetle is already a highly desirable collector's car today. But a Belgian-delivered 1951 1100 Standard, with its matching-numbers engine, correct original details, documented history and a restoration of this calibre, belongs in an entirely different category.

This is far more than just another classic Beetle. It is a remarkable piece of Volkswagen heritage, intended for the true collector who understands just how difficult it has become to find an example where every detail is exactly as it should be.

A rare opportunity to add an exceptionally authentic and beautifully preserved early Volkswagen to a serious collection.